Nickname: "20th Century Gabriel," for his heavenly abilities on the horn.

Played in: ‘Bama State Collegians, Erskine Hawkins and his Orchestra.

Signature song: "Tuxedo Junction," a 1939 tune inspired by a streetcar intersection in Ensley. This area, which included a park, was a lively spot for night life during the 1920s-50s.

Well covered: Athough Hawkins’ rendition of "Tuxedo Junction" made the top 10, the song was a No. 1 hit for the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Countless versions have been recorded since then, by artists ranging from Duke Ellington to the Manhattan Transfer.

Hit parade: Included "After Hours," "Tippin’ In."

This joint is jumpin’: Hawkins’ group was a mainstay at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, and eventually became the house band. He was known for his flashy style, but also for his generosity in spreading solos throughout the ensemble.

Kudos: Inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and Alabama Music Hall of Fame, honorary doctorate from Alabama State University.

Memorialized: A park in Ensley bears his name, at the same site that inspired "Tuxedo Junction." It turns into a giant block party at the Function in the Junction music festival, Ensley Avenue at 19th Street, each July.

On stage: A musical about Hawkins’ early life, "Tuxedo Junction," will be presented through Feb. 25 by Birmingham Children’s Theatre. Most performances are targeted to school groups, but the 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 12 is open to the public.